As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across many interesting and peculiar names for various plants and fruits. One such example is the medlar fruit, which has had quite a rude and scandalous name attached to it for centuries. While today it is referred to as the medlar, in the past it was commonly known as the “open-arse”. you read that right!
The name “open-arse” was believed to stem from the appearance of the fruit’s calyx, which resembles a rather large bottom. It’s fascinating how the fruit’s physical features can lead to such an explicit and cheeky name. Although it may be considered offensive and impolite by today’s standards, it reflects the colorful language and humor of the past.
Interestingly, the medlar’s rude names were not limited to just English-speaking countries. Even abroad, the fruit had unflattering aliases. In French, it was called “cul-de-chien”, which translates to “dog’s bottom”. Similarly, in Dutch, it was referred to as “kontneus”, meaning “nose of the bottom”. These names demonstrate the common perception of the medlar’s resemblance to a posterior.
Now, you might be wondering how I came across such information and why I find it worth sharing. Well, as a gardening enthusiast, I believe it’s important to delve into the history and cultural significance of plants and fruits. Understanding the origins of their names can provide us with a deeper appreciation for the diversity and quirkiness of nature.
The medlar fruit, known as the “open-arse” in the past, has certainly had a rather rude and scandalous name attached to it. Its large calyx resembling a bottom has led to various unflattering names across different languages. While these names may not be socially acceptable today, they offer us a glimpse into the playful and colorful language of the past.
